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IQALUIT
Iqaluit Mayor Madeleine Redfern described deputy mayor David Ell as "a big man with a big heart," something lifelong friend and councillor Jimmy Kilabuk confirmed.

Iqaluit deputy mayor David Ell died unexpectedly March 26. His funeral was March 30. - Ed Maruyama photo

Ell died unexpectedly March 26 at age 53.

"He always had something nice to say," Kilabuk said through a translator. "Even though he was much younger than I was, he never let that gap get in the way. David was always kind."

"He will be greatly missed by many," Redfern said in a statement. "David served with integrity and honour. I wish to offer my sincere condolences on behalf of the city and our citizens to his family for the loss of a much loved and respected man."

Ell followed in his father's footsteps when he was elected to city council and named deputy mayor in 2009. He was reaffirmed in that position in 2011.

Kilabuk said it was only natural that Ell and his sister, Iqaluit West MLA Monica Ell, should go into politics like their father Ben.

"As life progresses, if your parents were politicians or whatever, kids tend to follow in their footsteps," he said, noting that was his situation as well. "My ancestors were on council before, and they were involved in politics. It kind of runs in the family."

Ell lived his life with diminished use of one side of his body, but that did not stop him from doing things those with full mobility could manage.

"He was able to go hunting, play sports, anything," Kilabuk said. "No barriers stopped him from doing things."

That included being supportive of his older friend, Kilabuk.

"I lost my son last year to an accident, and since then, David always looked after my needs for country food," he said. "He'd always come to my place with some food. I will never forget the kindness David had. He was never mean to anyone. I'm really going to miss David's support for everyone who came looking for support."

Though Redfern will need to find a new deputy mayor, Kilabuk said his friend is irreplaceable.

"(We've) lost a family member," he said. "I know I'll never see David again. He used to sit across from me, so I'll have to look at that seat and not see David there."

Flags at City of Iqaluit properties were set at half-mast March 27 to honour Ell. City staff were given part of the afternoon of March 30 to attend his funeral.

Ell leaves behind his wife Sapatie and five children, according to the city's website.

The cause of death has not been released.

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